Distinguished Commissioner Mr. Leonard Orban,

Distinguished Vice Minister Mr. Zhang Xinsheng,

His Excellencies Ambassadors from the EU member states,

Ladies and Gentlemen:

Today, the Mission of the People's Republic of China to the European Communities and the European Commission hold this ceremony here for the launching of the China-EU Language Exchange Project (EU Window). We feel pleased with your presence and here, on behalf of the Chinese Mission, I would like to extend to all of you the warmest welcome and heartfelt gratitude!

The China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership has grown steadily in recent years, with bilateral exchange and cooperation expanding in various fields to become an all-round, wide-ranging and multi-level situation. Language is the carrier of culture. It is the bridge between the hearts and minds of people in different countries. We believe that the China-EU Language Exchange Project will not only facilitate the study of Chinese language for the people in EU member states, but will also go a long way to promote the communication and understanding of each other for the Chinese people and European people, particularly the young generation. This will further enhance the cultural and social basis for China-EU relationship. To this end, the Chinese Mission and the Office of the Chinese Language Council International, or Hanban, will work in close coordination and cooperation with the EU side to ensure the success of this project.

On May 12, the earthquake of China's Sichuan province has already claimed many lives. The EU institutions and people in all quarters of Europe immediately extended their sympathy to China and provided precious humanitarian assistance in support of the Chinese people in the rescue and relief operations. Here, I would like to take this opportunity to express gratitude of the Chinese Government and people to the European side for your support.

In conclusion, let me once again thank you for coming and thank our friends from the press and media of China and Europe for your strong support.

Thank you!